US Youth Soccer, in partnership with US Club Soccer and the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO), has announced a change to how youth soccer age groups are defined. Beginning with the 2026–27 season/registration year, age groups will shift to an August 1st through July 31st cycle, replacing the current calendar-year system (January 1st through December 31st).

For Plum Area Youth Soccer (PAYS), this change will take effect starting with the Fall 2026 season.

This update is intended to better align youth soccer with the academic calendar and help reduce situations where players—especially those with later birthdays—are separated from their classmates and peers during important transition years.

Please review the linked Age Change Frequently Asked Questions and the PAYS Single Age Group Policy for additional details.

If you have any questions about these changes, please contact us at [email protected]